Performing Marriage Ceremonies

The Code of Virginia Sections 20-23 and 20-25 address ministers and persons other than ministers who may perform marriage ceremonies in the Commonwealth. The forms below are to be completed by those wishing to perform a wedding ceremony in Virginia prior to the ceremony taking place.

APPLICABLE FORMS & APPLICATIONS

Performing a One-Time Civil Marriage Ceremony

VIRGINIA STATE CODE §20-25 requires that an individual wanting to perform a wedding ceremony in Virginia must receive authorization through the Court, prior to performing the ceremony. For details and the required application, download the One-Time Civil Marriage Ceremony Authorization form.

Out-of-State Ministers

VIRGINIA STATE CODE §20-23 allows the Circuit Court to authorize ministers of any religious denomination to celebrate the rites of matrimony in the Commonwealth pursuant to the conditions set forth in the statute. For details and the required application, download the Out-of-State Ministers form (Requirements for Religious Officiants to be Authorized by the King William Circuit Court to Perform Religious Marriage Ceremonies). 

Additional Information

VIRGINIA STATE CODE Title 20, Chapter 2 provides general details for marriages in the Commonwealth.

RELATED forms/applications

  1. One Time Civil Marriage Authorization
  2. Registration of Ministers/Others to Perform Marriages
  3. Out of State Ministers
  4. Marriage License (PDF)